The New York Buddhist Church (NYBC) is launching an appeal for the next phase of the fund of the Future - the renovation and expansion of 332 Riverside Drive, which houses the hondo (main religious hall). The proposed contemporary church building, designed by award-winning Smith and Thompson Architects (who designed the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art, Staten Island, NY), will significantly enhance the historic landmark district. As the building has physically deteriorated, the Church is in increasing need of a space that serves a diverse and growing Buddhist community.

Background: In 1993 the NYBC initiated the Fund for the Future campaign. Phase 1 of the campaign successfully accomplished the acquisition, restoration and renovation of the former American Buddhist Academy (now American Buddhist Study Center, ABSC) building at 331 Riverside Drive. Over a ten-year period the Church raised nearly $1 million to complete the renovation of this five-storied landmark building, which now houses meeting and meditation rooms, classrooms, the ABSC, kitchens, the minister's residence and guest rooms.